The primary reason for the American colonies' rebellion against Britain was the imposition of taxes and laws perceived as unfair without proper representation in Parliament. The rallying cry of "no taxation without representation" encapsulated the growing frustration among colonists over British policies that seemed to favor the British economy at the expense of colonial interests. Various instances, such as the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts, sparked widespread protests. Additionally, Enlightenment ideas advocating for individual rights and self-governance fueled revolutionary sentiments. Collectively, these grievances catalyzed the desire for independence, leading to the Declaration of Independence in 1776.